Strings, Soul, and Virginia Roots: Bronwyn Keith-Hynes Shines at Martyrs

There must be something in the water that cultivates music and an immense amount of talent in the state of Virginia. Some contemporaries hailing from The Old Dominion include Ramona and the Holy Smokes, Rebecca Porter and the Rhinestone Roses, and Dave Matthews Band. Charlottesville native Bronwyn Keith-Hynes is on the list and recently delivered an epic performance at Martyrs’ in Chicago.

All Photos By: Jeff Randolph

Bronwyn is a well-decorated instrumentalist who has earned two IBMA awards for Fiddler of the Year, as well as a Grammy for her contributions to Molly Tuttle and Golden Highway. Bronwyn has been cementing her place as a solo artist, and her latest album, I Built A World, is a true testament to her love for traditional bluegrass and her ability to take the genre to new heights.

The show at Martyrs’ was a co-headlining show alongside former Golden Highway bandmate Kyle Tuttle. Bronwyn and her talented band started the show with a rendition of the old-time fiddle tune, “Sally Goodin.” The fast-paced composition drew the audience in immediately. Chairs shuffled, glasses were grabbed, and a large contingency of the audience made their way closer to the stage to capture vibes and melodic colors.

The setlist was solid, navigating through standards and original songs. She delivered a great version of “Open Water” from her 2020 album, Fiddler’s Pastime. She also included two songs from “I Built A World,” “Can’t Live Without Love,” and “Angel Island.”

The way Bronwyn interacts with her band members and the audience is similar. There is a sense of delicate command and respect with sonic rewards delivered to both, a showcase of how an artist evolves and continues to master their craft right before your very eyes. The music is enjoyable and resonates without overtly attacking sensibilities and sensitivities. It is just plain old good fun music.

Bronwyn has more dates booked across the country this summer. If you enjoy fiddle-playing at a high level with melodic vocals with fellow musicians who are dialed in, make it part of your plans to catch Bronwyn Keith-Hynes. It’s an experience that you will not forget.

Setlist:

Sally Goodin

Me and My Uncle

Get No Better

Virginia Gal

Can’t Live Without Love

Johnny Ray

Flower Child

Angel Island

Open Water

One Way Track

Gallatin Road

Sticks & Stones

The Chain (Fleetwood Mac cover)